Derby County boss provides injury update on striker

The Czech Republic international sustained an injury on his hamstring during training on Monday which ruled him out of Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup first round tie at Grimsby Town – however he did not miss a match as the game was abandoned with the Rams 1-0 up due to a waterlogged pitch.

Rowett admitted ahead of Derby’s first home match of the season that Vydra’s fitness had improved, however the striker remained a doubt for the weekend.

“I don’t know. I think with the nature of that type of injury, it would always be a little touch-and-go as to whether he will be available.” he said.

I don’t think it’s too serious. They think it’s more nerve-based than muscular.

“It was really bizarre, because he got through training and it was just when we were doing a few sprints at the end of training before doing a bit of shape, so it was a little bit disappointing for that to happen.

“But it is what it is and we’ll deal with it.”

Rowett had originally planned for Vydra to play behind David Nugent in a 4-2-3-1 formation, but his plans were scuppered due to the injury, electing to fill the role with Johnny Russell instead.

“I was really looking forward to Vyds and Nuge playing together, because he looked so bright when he came on (at Sunderland),” Rowett added.

“We felt we’d give Johnny an opportunity in there – I was going to give him a little breather – and him and Nuge again looked quite lively.”